Without Johnny Rodriguezwould there be a George Strait?
George certainly doesn’t think so. On Monday, George paid tribute to his fellow country legendwho died last week at the age of 73. In his sweet message, the “King of Country Music” thanked Johnny for paving the way.
“Norma [Straight, his wife] and I are so sad about Johnny’s passing,” wrote George on a May 12 Instagram Story. “He was an inspiration to me from the beginning.”
“Being from South Texas myself, it gave me so much hope knowing that he had become such a huge success,” continued George, “that maybe there was a hope for a guy like me.”
Juan Raoul Davis “Johnny” Rodriguez died on May 9. Growing up in Sabinal, Texas, Johnny helped bring the Tejano sound to the masses, infusing country music with Latin sounds. He hit it big in the 1970s and ‘80s with songs like “Pass Me By (If You’re Only Passing Through),” “I Just Can’t Get Her Out of My Mind,” and “Love Put a Song In My Heart.”
George, who hails from Pearsall, Texas, remembered Johnny as “a great talent,” before adding, “God bless his family, friends and fans. You’ll be missed, amigo.”
Johnny Rodriguez performing on the ABC TV special ‘1976 / 11th Academy of Country Music Awards’ in 1976Photo by American Broadcasting Companies via Getty Images
Johnny died in San Antonio from health complications. His daughter shared a message on social media, saying her father was “not only a legendary musician whose artistry touched millions around the world, but also a deeply loved husband, father, uncle, and brother whose warmth, humor, and compassion shaped the lives of all who knew him.
Recently, the “All My Exes Live In Texas” singer caused some concern among his fans. George recently kicked off his tour with Chris Stapletonand a clip of his performance—where he sat down and barely played the guitar in his lap—had fans talking.
Related: Country Legend George Strait, 72, Sparks Fan Concern During Concert Performance
